Pretty Little Liars (Season 1-3) Review

*Warning: Contains Spoilers*

Who is A? Yes we’re already in season three and out of the whole A team, we only are aware of two members; Mona and Toby. *Gasp*

Synopsis: Four friends band together against an anonymous foe who threatens to reveal their darkest secrets, whilst unravelling the mystery of the murder of their best friend. (IMDB)

Pretty Little Liars (PPL) is one of my favourite TV shows, sitting on the same shelf as Revenge, Once upon a time, The Middle and Modern Family. With already 12 wins and 8 nominations, Pretty Little Liars is definitely one of the best mystery/thriller Drama’s out there, targeting the teens and young adults. The A game of stalking friendship, betrayals and dark secrets is the recipe to finding out the mystery of this unknown enemy. Though will we have to hold onto our seats until season 4?

One of the bold features of PPL is the story. Some may say “Doesn’t it get boring trying to find out who one person is for ages?” Well no, no it isn’t. The episodes are filled with so much more drama. We’re shown the hard lives of four teenage girls, packed with school issues, family secrets, bitter sweetness and so much more. In every episode we are satisfied with yet another clue, mystery and suspence. The twisted secrets, messages and visuals are unforgettable. In daunting dreams with the presence of dead Alison and moments of abrupt jumps are somewhat freaky but appreciated. PPL captures a gripping tale which brings that solid quench, moving slowly onto the next episode. It’s a show you can never get bored of.

The character development is profoundly achieved. Each character is introduced in a suspicious way, releasing new clues and maybe opening another trap. We can’t trust anyone in this show, not even the people we admire. From the weird but shaky Lucas (Brendan Robinson), the not-so-blind Jenna (Tammin Sursok) to the mysterious Noel Khan (Brant Dougherty). An endless list of brilliant actors whom all deliver compelling performances, bringing the show to life.

All four main characters, Spencer, Hanna, Aria and Emily are perfectly casted for the roles. Their growth in friendship, loyalty and confidence is utterly evident through the past years in Rosewood High. The audience have emotionally connected with them, where we are intertwined with them in every step. Knowing their personalities and characteristics in detail creates a promising connection with the audience. We strive along with them, eager to find out who A is.

Troin Belliserio in Pretty Little Liars

Spencer Hastings (Troin Belliserio) the geek who we adore is an amazing character, a friend that we seek for. Her intelligence and confidence, boldly stands out. The moment we find out Toby is part of A, we immediately sympathise for her, determined to somehow make her aware. Though her depression and vengeful plot is getting to the worst of her. Will she turn into a monster, just to get back at Toby?

Ashley Benson (Hanna) and Janel Parrish (Mona) in Pretty Little Liars

Cupcake and Caleb lover, Hanna (Ashley Benson) portrays this rebel who makes sure her voice is heard. She doesn’t stand for any bitchiness and if she has to, will even chase A in her heels.

Lucy Hale in Pretty Little Liars

Aria Montgomery (Lucy Hale), daughter of school teachers; Mr and Mrs Montgomery, portrays this

sweet, innocent girl who approaches threats in a subtle way. By avoiding instant text threats, she doesn’t do herself justice, except for drifting her lover; Mr.Fitz away. Though I have to admit, Ezra does give me chills of whether he may be part of the ‘A’ Gang.

Shey Mitchell in Pretty Little Liars

Last but not least, Brave, league swimmer, Emily (Shey Mitchell) is the strongest out of the four. The way she follows her gut and digs deep to find out the truth is applaudible. Her bold stigma definitely highlights her hero-like persona. Having said that, we’re at a point where guilt seems to be winning the race. Her sub-consciousness is taking control, drowning Emily with sweaty palms and a bloody spade, no pun-intended. Did Emily kill Alison or was that just a nasty, muddled up flashback?

Overall, PPL is a must-watch TV show. The mystery and suspence is built up in a way which is impossible to describe in simple words. It’s a truly messed up tale, juxtaposed with dark secrets, embedded with twisted character and mind-teasing clues. Everything about PPL is beautiful and definitely unmissable. I would recommend you watching it from season 1, even though there’s a lot to catch up – it’s worth it.

My Rating: 9/10

Written by: Meera Darji

3 thoughts on “Pretty Little Liars (Season 1-3) Review

  1. Hi, I love Pretty Little Liars, though I was disapointed when Mona was revealed to be part of Team A. Seemed a bit obvious. Wasn’t sure if I was going to keep watching but hearing that about Toby (knew I didn’t like him!) makes me want to start watching again. Just have to wait for the third season to start showing in the UK.

    1. Yes totally agree, when Mona was revealed I was quite let down, I wanted a bigger surprise! Though that definitely showed through Toby…which was totally shocking! The UK is taking tooo long for the series to start, so I’ve caught up online and its getting better and better! You got to watch it 🙂 Thanks for commenting!

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